Mazda3i Vehicle Maintenance Checks
For this article, we’ll be looking at a 2006 Mazda3i. We won’t spend much time on performing routine maintenance services, as we should all be familiar with the nuts and bolts of the job. The most important thing to ask yourself is, why are you doing this service? Sure it’s important to get fresh fluids and
The Ins and Outs of Variable Valve Timing (VVT) Systems and Their Role in Vehicle Emissions
By the early 1990s, almost all import automotive manufacturers had a successful variable valve timing (VVT) system in production. These systems offered higher performance from smaller displacement engines at higher rpm. Do you know that VVT is playing a direct role in vehicle emissions and the way gases are burned in the combustion chamber?
Tech Talk – Engine Innovations to Reach Government Fuel Standards
In recent years, the primary driving force behind engine innovation has been the never-ending quest for better fuel economy with little or no sacrifice in performance. Government regulations and rising fuel prices are forcing automakers to develop new technologies and powertrains that squeeze more power out of every drop of fuel while producing less pollution and greenhouse gas (carbon dioxide) emissions.
A 360° Look Into the GM 60° 3.1L Engine
Over the years, GM has saved a bundle on manufacturing the 3.1L engine by using the production line tooling it originally developed for the 2.8L V6. By simply changing the bore diameter, the displacement of the same engine block could now be increased for more power and torque.
A New Look at Cooling System Technology
While changes in modern cooling system technology might not be apparent in day-to-day servicing, the fact is that auto manufacturers are continuing to increase fuel economy and power output by changing how the cooling system operates.
Honda Civic Hybrid Service
Technical Editor Larry Carley discusses servicing the Honda Civic Hybrid, now in its third generation, with more than 200,000 cars sold to date since its introduction to the U.S. market in 2002 as a model year 2003, and highlights repair opportunities in diagnosing battery problems and various maintenance items.
Mercedes-Benz: Managing Misfires, Solving Those Strange, Intermittent Engine Vibrations
Automotive Electronics Diagnostician Sergio Fernandez discusses how to solve those strange, intermittent engine vibrations on a 2003 E320, with 3.2L V6 engine and 120,000 miles. The diagnosis begins with these findings: DTC P0305, misfire on cylinder #5; and DTC P0301, misfire on cylinder #1.
Suspension Bushing Testing: When is a Bushing Bad?
There is no real maintenance schedule for a bushing beyond periodic inspection. While tie rod ends and ball joints might occasionally receive a little “thanks” for all their hard work in the form of a greasy treat, the bushing gets no such thanks. In fact, such a “treat” can mean death to a rubber bushing.
Getting Stoked to Service the 6.0L Power Stroke
If there were one engine that plagues the mid-size diesel world, you would have to say that it is the 6.0L Power Stroke. The 6.0L came into existence because the EPA demanded tighter emissions laws for diesel engines. Even though the 7.3L was branded as the reliable workhorse for Ford, it would never be able to pass the tighter emissions laws that were going to come into effect for 2004.
Diagnostic Solutions: Engine Lubrication System Problems
Auto manufacturers are continuing to reduce vehicle maintenance requirements by extending oil change intervals, but many vehicle owners are forgetting to check their engine’s oil level between oil changes, warns Gary Goms, import specialist contributor. As such, extended oil change intervals are changing how we should recommend and perform scheduled vehicle maintenance.
Nissan: Solving Rotating Electrical Issues
Maybe the warning light on the dash has caught the attention of the customer who was lucky enough to make it to your shop, or not so lucky and their car needs to be towed, says Import Specialist Contributor Bob Dowie. Whatever the scenario, don’t be too quick to jump to conclusions when diagnosing rotating electrical issues.
Kia Brake & Chassis Repairs
Import Specialist Bob Dowie advises that while the Kia suspension system will provide many problem-free miles, from a safety standpoint, it could be argued that the steering and suspension system on any car is the most critical. That’s why it’s so important that every car that goes on the lift should get a basic safety check.